Jujutsu Kaisen 0 is an exciting and faithful adaptation of Volume 0 of the series' manga -- also known as the "Cursed Child" story arc -- which is a prequel to the main series. Elevated by spectacular animation, fantastic performances from the voice cast, and fun bonus content that wasn't shown in the manga, Jujutsu Kaisen 0 is sure to meet (and likely exceed) fans' expectations. The love and care for the source material is evident from beginning to end.
Jujutsu Kaisen 0 primarily follows Yuta Okkotsu, a timid young boy being haunted by his childhood friend, Rika Orimoto, after she was killed in a car accident. Rika became overprotective (to put it mildly) and an unusually powerful Cursed Spirit attached to Yuta. He has no idea how to control her or keep her from harming others and subsequently struggles with depression and loneliness to the point where he doesn't think he deserves to live.
Fans who paid close attention to the Jujutsu Kaisen anime might recall Yuta being mentioned several times throughout Season 1 by different characters, including Satoru Gojo. Yuta ends up in a similar situation to Yuji Itadori at Jujutsu High as he's supposed to be executed, but Gojo manages to prevent that (for now) and instead takes him on as a student. He meets and develops meaningful bonds with Maki Zenin, Toge Inumaki, and Panda. These relationships essentially serve as the core of the movie as Yuta makes it his goal to break Rika's curse.
Apart from its stunning visuals, what truly makes Jujutsu Kaisen 0 so impressive is its familiar nuanced approach to its main characters and overarching story. Moreover, knowing that it's completely canonical material -- unlike the films of other popular anime series like One Piece or My Hero Academia -- makes it all the more enticing. The movie's events are absolutely integral to the future of the main series. In fact, the first new story arc the recently announced Season 2 will adapt will have subplots that tie into Jujutsu Kaisen 0.
Jujutsu Kaisen 0 makes a commendable effort to properly develop its main characters and the dynamics between them, including the villainous Suguru Geto. Opposing ideologies that aren't simply 'good guys vs. bad guys' are explored and add emotional depth to the action sequences. This results in riveting fight scenes that genuinely feel meaningful. If there's one issue with this film it's that fans of the anime already know who survives, which takes a bit away from some would-be intense and emotional moments.
That said, Jujutsu Kaisen 0 will undoubtedly surprise and satisfy fans with its strong character writing, captivating story arc, and phenomenal animation. The film also benefits from being a great starting point for anyone who hasn't watched the anime or read the manga yet. Veteran fans will learn more about characters they're already familiar with, meet new ones who will show up later on in the main series, and see a few in action like never before. Studio MAPPA has delivered everything Jujutsu Kaisen fans hoped for and more.
TOHO Animation's Jujutsu Kaisen 0 will be available in both English dub and Japanese sub and will arrive in over 1500 theaters nationwide starting March 18, as well as in select U.S.-based IMAX theaters. For more information, visit Crunchyroll Movie Night.
